Can someone who wears dentures wear an oral appliance to manage his or her sleep apnea? The answer depends completely on the shape of the remaining ridges. Healthy, strong ridges can support an oral appliance in such a way that the appliance is effective. If you have issues wearing your dentures, you might also have a problem wearing an oral appliance designed to manage sleep apnea.
A solution to both problems is to be evaluated for implants to stabilize and greatly improve your denture function, thus making you a candidate for oral appliance therapy.
A solution to both problems is to be evaluated for implants to stabilize and greatly improve your denture function, thus making you a candidate for oral appliance therapy.
This is an excellent example of why a dentist who is trained in managing sleep apnea with an oral appliance leads this aspect of treatment: It is imperative that your dentition is considered when making the decision to proceed with treatment.
Does insurance cover an oral appliance? The answer to that question is dependent on your insurance plan; however, an oral appliance for sleep apnea is billed to your medical insurance, not dental. In most cases, you have already met your deductible because of the sleep study and the appliance is covered at the contracted rate. Dental Sleep Therapy of Walla Walla also has the ability to bill Medicare as a Durable Medical Equipment supplier under Medicare Part B. Medicare covers a significant portion of the cost of the appliance, leaving a small co-pay that is often covered by secondary insurance.
Remember, the impact sleep apnea has on your health and lifestyle ranges from cardiovascular disease to diabetes and in some cases death. Assemble a team of doctors and dentists who can help you improve your condition. It could save your life.
